Artificial rain significantly affected chemical composition of alfalfa hay. Available carbohydrates, soluble ash and ash decreased due to the effect of leaching. Total lipids was slightly reduced by leaching, while protein content was not changed. Cellulose, lignin and cell wall fractions of alfalfa hay increased consistently under the effect of artificial rain. Sprinkling and processing time did significantly change the chemical composition of alfalfa hay. DM and AlA content increased in relation to process.

Interactions among treatment factors were generally nonsignificant. The only significant interactions were maturity-by-artificial rain level effect on available carbohydrate, lipids, cellulose and cell wall.

In general, alfalfa hay treated with artificial rain had a lower nutritive and economic value than when it is not affected by any rain.